The Perfect Bite: The worst fast food chicken sandwich

Not feeling like a fast food hamburger? You can always go for a chicken sandwich – but don’t be fooled into thinking you’re necessarily making a healthier choice. On this episode of The Perfect Bite, host Andrea Jenna is joined by registered dietitian Sarah Coulson of NOSH Nutrition. They take a look at five popular fast food chicken burgers and reveal which is the worst for you.

Don't be fooled into thinking a chicken sandwich is necessarily a healthier option. (Thinkstock)“Chicken sandwiches can be pretty bad, but not all of them,” says Sarah. “Some things that you want to consider when you’re buying a chicken sandwich is how are they prepared? What kind of condiments are on them? Even just the addition of bacon and mayonnaise can add a lot of calories and a lot of unhealthy fat.”

“Not all calories are created equally,” she continues. “So take a look at calories – how many calories per serving does a chicken sandwich contain? Think about how much protein is in there, because when we eat one of these sandwiches, we want to feel full and we want to feel satiated. And sometimes, that’s something that we don’t consider. Also, taking a look at how much fat. So, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat.”

Sarah says that wraps can be a healthier option – but not always.

“When you think about that satiety factor, we want to feel full – so the question is, is one wrap really going to do it? Or are we going to have two and then scooch those calories right back up.”

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to a chicken sandwich at a fast food restaurant, Sarah recommends going with a grilled chicken sandwich instead of crispy, which means that it’s likely battered and then deep-fried.

“Beyond that, if you’re looking for a fast food fix and you really want a burger, go for a classic beef burger,” she suggests. “Plain burger or maybe even a junior burger if you’re really motivated.”

What's your go-to chicken sandwich? Or do you prefer to make your own at home? Let us know in the comments.